LAC LA BICHE - For Alice Cardinal, a Grade 10 student at J.A Williams (JAWS) High School in Lac La Biche, being selected to receive a 2025 Impact Award from Northern Lights Public Schools brings with it a sense of happiness and gratitude.
“I feel very honoured to be recognized for this award,” Cardinal told Lakeland This Week.
According to Northern Lights Public Schools (NLPS), the Impact Awards commend students within the school division who have been chosen for their outstanding efforts in building welcoming school environments, mentoring peers, volunteering, demonstrating empathy and compassion, and using their knowledge and skills to make a difference.
“Launched in 2024, the awards celebrate students from all grade levels who go above and beyond to contribute positively to their school communities,” according to NLPS.
Cardinal is one of 12 students from eight different schools across the division who have been named as this year’s Impact Award Recipients. According to NLPS, over the next few weeks, members of the school division’s board of trustees will be visiting schools to present the awards.
Cardinal is actively involved with Tap Root Actors Academy, which is run by Canadian Indigenous actress Tantoo Cardinal, she helps her peers in school and works with her family on their ranch in the Kikino area.
At Tap Root Actors Academy, Cardinal volunteers by mentoring younger participants while assisting with projects. This experience also gives her an opportunity to learn about the different aspects of filmmaking.
While in school, Cardinal does her best to help classmates with whatever they need.
“In class, I’m always there in case anyone has questions,” she said. “I’ll listen to anyone that needs help solving a problem and stuff.”
The Impact Award “shows that hard work with helping others will benefit you in life,” said Cardinal.
The other 2025 Impact Award recipients are:
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Mateo Beniuk, Aurora Middle School, Lac La Biche
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Lainey Bokota, Bonnyville Centralized High School
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Maclean Etter, H.E. Bourgoin School, Bonnyville
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Preslee Jaques, Cold Lake High School
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Sierra Joe, Caslan School
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Bailey Leaming, North Star Elementary School
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Ellen Livingston, Ardmore School
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Myah Phaff, Ardmore School
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Colton Strzepek, H.E. Bourgoin School, Bonnyville
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Jessica Tetreau, Bonnyville Centralized High School
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Ruby Wasylciw, H.E. Bourgoin School, Bonnyville
Karen Packard, chair of the NLPS board of trustees, praised this year’s recipients.
“These students are more than just role models-they are leaders who make our schools stronger, kinder, and more connected,” said Packard. “We are honoured to recognize their efforts and inspired by the example set for others.”
